Our top tips for summer driving and handling the heat
The British Summer can be unpredictable, so make sure you're prepared for heatwaves on the road
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While the Great British summer offers weather that’s changeable at best and downright awful at worst, when it does get hot, it can be tricky to deal with.
And that’s before even getting behind the wheel. High temperatures can cause all kinds of issues, both for you and your motor.
That’s why Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, has offered some top driving tips to stay safe and comfy this time of year.
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Tips for the car
Keep an eye on the temperature
First things first, keep an eye on that temperature gauge (the one with a ‘floating’ thermometer on it). It shows your engine’s operating temperature and should usually sit in the middle (which is between 80-100C, depending on the car).
If you notice the gauge creeping towards the red zone, pull over safely, turn off your car and let the engine cool down before checking the coolant level.
Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot – the pressurised coolant can cause severe burns.
Check your cooling system
Speaking of coolant, the cooling system is your car’s primary defence against overheating. Before embarking on a journey in hot weather, it might be worth checking your cooling system.
Check the coolant levels and top up if necessary. Also, look at the radiator and hoses for any signs of wear or leaks.
Sam says: “It’s also wise to have your cooling system flushed and refilled at the right intervals, which you can find in the owner's manual. A well-maintained cooling system is key to keeping that temperature needle steady, even in the warmest weather.”
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Check your fluid levels
As well as coolant, other fluids in your vehicle play a critical role in keeping it running smoothly in hot temperatures.
You should check the levels of engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid when required.
You should be able to find out how to do this using your owner's manual, or by doing a quick search.
These fluids protect various key components of your car, reducing friction and heat, so making sure they’re at the right levels is important.
Check your tyre pressure
Hot temperatures can cause tyre pressure to increase, leading to a higher risk of blowouts.
Make sure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which you can find in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame.
Sam says that the best time to check tyre pressure is before you set off.
He says: “Your tyres warm up when you drive, and you can get a false pressure reading when they’re warm. Check your tyres before you set off, when they’re cold, for an accurate reading – it’s best to check your tyre pressure (and for any signs of wear and tear) regularly.”
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Crank up the air-con
Your car’s air-con should be checked when you get a full service, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check it yourself – especially as the warm weather approaches.
If you spot any problems, such as weak or warm airflow or unusual smells, get it checked out and potentially re-gassed.
It might seem like a luxury to some, but it’s worth keeping it in check because air-con not only keeps you cool but can also help prevent fatigue.
Look after your battery
Sam says monitoring your car battery health is super important, pointing out: “Warm weather can be tough on car batteries. Heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, leading to reduced battery life.
“Your battery should be checked during a service, but it doesn’t hurt to give it a once over before the summer properly kicks in. If your battery is over three years old, consider having it tested by a professional to make sure it’s all good.”
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Tips for you
Stay hydrated
We all know it’s important to drink plenty of water, especially when it’s warm, but did you know dehydration impairs concentration and reaction times?
To avoid increasing the risk of accidents in your used Kia Sportage, make sure to pack plenty of water and take regular rest breaks.
It’s best to avoid drinks with caffeine, too, since caffeine can contribute to dehydration.
Protection from the sun
The sun can be a real pain when it comes to cars and driving – from the rays heating up the interior to the brightness in your eyes while driving.
To stop your car turning into a mobile metal greenhouse, why not get some shades for your windscreen and windows? You’d be surprised by how much of a difference they make.
Keeping a pair of sunglasses within reach is also advisable to avoid being dazzled, especially as the sun is setting on the horizon and right in your eyeline.
A last little tip is to slap on some suncream. Windows don’t stop you getting sunburnt, so you need to get use that factor 50 even when driving.
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Pack an emergency kit
Unfortunately, emergencies do happen. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared.
Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, a flashlight and basic tools.
Sam offers some tips on packing an emergency kit: “A fully charged mobile phone (and portable charger) are also crucial for calling for help if needed.
“A checklist with the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is also helpful, so you can know the steps to take if you or your passengers aren’t feeling well.”
Summer driving tips
Now that you know how to prepare for driving in the summer heat, you can enjoy any road trips for the rest of the summer (and any summers beyond) without worrying that your car will let you down.